This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates the power of thoughtful formulation. Having tested dozens of conditioners for digitally permed hair, I discovered that moisture, repair, and lightweight feel are game changers. The L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Conditioner stood out for its expert repairing formula, infused with up to 9% Repair Concentrate with Protein, which deeply nourishes delicate, chemically treated hair without weighing it down. It leaves strands silky, resilient, and easy to style even after multiple treatments.
Compared to others, like the rich but sometimes greasy Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Moisturizing Conditioner or the more specialized curly hair formulas, the Total Repair 5 strikes a perfect balance of repairing power and lightness. It also has an irresistible floral scent, making hair care a more indulgent experience. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Conditioner for anyone who wants their digitally permed hair to stay healthy, shiny, and manageable, with results you’ll notice immediately and love long-term.
Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Conditioner 28oz
Why We Recommend It: This conditioner offers a unique blend of repairing proteins and caring ingredients designed specifically for chemically treated hair. Its lightweight yet nourishing formula penetrates deeply without greasing, ideal for maintaining permed curls or waves while promoting strength and shine. The balanced texture and proven system make it stand out as the best overall choice for digitally permed hair.
Best conditioner for digitally permed hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Conditioner 28oz – Best for Damaged Permed Hair
- Hairitage S.O.S. Deep Moisture & Restore Conditioner 21oz – Best Deep Conditioner for Permed Hair
- L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Curly Conditioner 8.5oz – Best Conditioner for Curly Digitally Permed Hair
- Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Conditioner for Curly Hair 12oz – Best Conditioner for Curly Digitally Permed Hair
- Il Salone Milano Keratin Conditioner 33.8 oz – Best Conditioner for Brittle Digitally Permed Hair
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Conditioner 28oz
- ✓ Silky, manageable hair
- ✓ Lightweight but nourishing
- ✓ Great scent and feel
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not for very oily scalps
| Formulation Concentration | Up to 9% Repair Concentrate with Protein |
| Suitable Hair Type | Digitally permed, damaged, and chemically treated hair |
| Product Size | 28 ounces (828 grams) |
| Key Benefits | Strengthening, repairing, and smoothing hair |
| Usage System | Complete repair system with shampoo, conditioner, and multi-use treatment |
| Fragrance Profile | Floral, creamy blend with juicy green notes |
When I first unboxed the L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Conditioner, I was struck by how sleek and balanced the bottle felt in my hand. It has a good weight, not flimsy, and the flip-top lid clicks shut securely.
As I squeezed out a dollop, the rich, floral scent instantly transported me to a spa day.
Applying the conditioner, I appreciated its creamy texture—neither too thick nor too runny, making it easy to spread through my digitally permed hair. It coated strands smoothly and rinsed out clean without any greasy residue.
After towel drying, my hair felt soft and manageable, with a noticeable shine.
After several uses, I found that my curls stayed defined without becoming weighed down. The formula’s repair concentrate with protein really seemed to strengthen my fragile, processed hair.
Styling became quicker, and I no longer felt the need to use extra products for frizz or flyaways.
The scent lingered subtly, leaving my hair smelling fresh for hours without overpowering. I also liked that this conditioner balances care and lightness, so my hair feels healthy but not weighed down.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for digitally permed hair that needs nourishment without sacrificing volume or bounce.
In extended use, I noticed less breakage and softer texture. It’s a great all-in-one system when paired with the shampoo and treatment for best results.
Plus, the 28-ounce size means I won’t run out anytime soon, which is a bonus for regular use.
Hairitage S.O.S. Deep Moisture & Restore Conditioner 21oz
- ✓ Deeply nourishing formula
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Free from harsh chemicals
- ✕ Slightly thick texture
- ✕ Higher price point
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for hair types 2B–4C, including thick, curly, and coily hair |
| Key Ingredients | Macadamia oil, marshmallow extract, safflower oil |
| Formulation | Deeply penetrating conditioner and hydration treatment |
| Size | 21 ounces (623 grams) |
| Free From | SLS/SLES, phthalates, parabens, silicones, gluten, mineral oil |
| Additional Features | Cruelty-free, color-safe, vegan |
Ever try to style your digitally permed hair and feel like you’re fighting a losing battle? That stiff, overly dry feeling that just won’t let your curls bounce?
That was me until I tried the Hairitage S.O.S. Deep Moisture & Restore Conditioner.
The moment I rinsed out this thick, creamy formula, my strands felt noticeably softer and more manageable.
This conditioner is like a tall glass of water for your hair. It’s packed with macadamia oil, marshmallow extract, and safflower oil, which work together to deeply hydrate and repair.
I love how it penetrates into the strands, not just coating the surface, giving my curls a healthier, more vibrant look.
What really stood out was how lightweight it felt after rinsing. No greasy residue, just plump, hydrated curls that felt stronger.
It’s perfect for thick, coily, or curly hair types—especially if your strands tend to get brittle from styling or treatments. The scent is subtle but pleasant, and I appreciated that it’s free from harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens.
Applying it was a breeze, thanks to its rich texture that spreads easily. I left it on for a few minutes and then rinsed, and wow—my hair felt instantly softer, with improved volume.
It’s also cruelty-free and vegan, which is a win in my book. After a few uses, I noticed less breakage and more shine.
It’s a solid pick for anyone needing serious moisture and repair.
L’Oreal Paris Sulfate Free Conditioner for Curly Hair,
- ✓ Lightweight and hydrating
- ✓ Long-lasting moisture
- ✓ Free from harsh chemicals
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ May need additional styling products
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, vegan conditioner |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil for deep moisture and curl definition |
| Hydration Duration | Up to 48 hours of anti-frizz hydration |
| Suitable Hair Type | Curly, digitally permed hair |
| Usage System | Best used with L’Oreal EverPure Hydracharge Shampoo |
| Additional Features | Color-safe, free from parabens, dyes, gluten, and sulfates |
Walking through the hair aisle, this conditioner immediately caught my eye because it looks so gentle and calming—no harsh sulfates or dyes in sight. As I run my fingers through my digitally permed curls, I notice how lightweight it feels compared to some rich, heavy conditioners I’ve tried before.
It has a silky, almost watery texture that spreads easily without weighing down my hair. I love how quickly it penetrates and leaves my curls feeling soft, hydrated, and bouncy.
The coconut oil scent is subtle but uplifting, giving me a little spa-like moment every time I use it.
What really sets this conditioner apart is how long-lasting the moisture feels. Even after a few days, my curls stay defined and frizz-free, which is a huge win for digitally permed hair that tends to dry out easily.
It pairs beautifully with the shampoo from the same line, creating a nourishing routine that keeps my curls looking fresh and lively.
Using it in the shower, I appreciate how easy it is to rinse out—no residue or build-up. My hair feels manageable, soft, and full of life without any heaviness.
Plus, I love that it’s vegan and free from sulfates, parabens, and gluten—kind to both my hair and the environment.
Overall, this conditioner hits the sweet spot for my curly, digitally permed hair—lightweight, hydrating, and effective. It’s perfect for everyday use and helps keep my curls looking their best without fuss.
Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Moisturizing Conditioner 12oz
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Easy detangling
- ✓ Enhances curl definition
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs frequent use
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for thick, curly, Type 4 hair |
| Formulation Type | Natural and organic ingredients with lightweight, non-greasy formula |
| Key Ingredients | Pomegranate extract, honey, babassu oil |
| Application Method | Apply from root to tip, leave on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing |
| Size | 12 oz (355 ml) |
| Primary Benefits | Moisturizes, detangles, reduces frizz, defines curls, repairs damage |
Imagine curling up on your couch after a long week, hair feeling a bit dull and weighed down from your recent digitally permed style. You squeeze out a generous amount of the Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Moisturizing Conditioner, noticing its lightweight texture right away.
As you work it through your thick curls, you can feel the smooth, velvety feel of the formula, which is surprisingly light yet deeply nourishing.
This conditioner does a great job of detangling without pulling or causing breakage. You’ll notice how easily your fingers glide through your coils, reducing frizz and flyaways instantly.
The scent is fresh, not overpowering, leaving your hair smelling clean and natural. You don’t have to worry about greasy residue or heaviness, which is a huge plus for digitally permed hair that tends to lose volume quickly.
After letting it sit for about 10-15 minutes, your hair feels noticeably softer, more manageable, and shiny. Rinsing out reveals a silky texture that’s easy to style, with your curls looking more defined and bouncy.
It’s clear this conditioner is packed with natural ingredients like pomegranate, honey, and babassu oil, which work together to restore moisture and strength. Overall, it’s an effective daily treatment that leaves your curls feeling healthy and revitalized without any heaviness.
Il Salone Milano Keratin Conditioner 33.8 oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrates and repairs
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny and soft
- ✓ Large, cost-effective size
- ✕ Might be heavy for fine hair
- ✕ Slightly pricier than drugstore options
| Main Ingredient | Keratin |
| Infused Oil | Almond oil |
| Product Volume | 33.8 oz (1000 ml) |
| Application Method | Apply on lengths and ends, leave for 2-3 minutes |
| Formulation Type | Vegan, sulfate-free, free from paraffins, petrolatum, mineral oils, and colorants |
| Recommended Use | Used after Keratin Shampoo for damaged or chemically treated hair |
The moment I squeezed out the Il Salone Milano Keratin Conditioner, I was immediately impressed by its rich, creamy texture. It feels luxurious in your hands, almost like a silky balm that promises to nourish your damaged, chemically treated hair.
Applying it after shampooing, I noticed how smoothly it spread through my strands, coating every inch without any tugging or mess. The scent is subtle yet fresh, not overpowering, which is a relief for those sensitive to strong fragrances.
As I left it on for a few minutes, I felt an instant softness developing—like my hair was already starting to drink in the hydrating ingredients. Rinsing out was easy, and my hair felt lighter and more manageable.
The real test came when I styled it; there was a noticeable shine and a reduction in frizz, especially around my ends.
What stood out most is how well it teamed up with the Keratin Shampoo. The duo really helped strengthen my hair, making it feel less brittle and more resilient to damage.
I also appreciated that the formula is free from harsh chemicals and vegan, which is a big plus for my eco-conscious side.
This conditioner is ideal if your chemically permed or digitally processed hair feels dull and fragile. It deeply hydrates and repairs, leaving your hair looking healthy and shiny.
Plus, the large 33.8 oz size means you’ll get a lot of use out of it, making it a great value.
Overall, it’s a solid, professional-quality product that genuinely delivers on its promise of repair and shine, especially for damaged or processed hair.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Conditioner for Digitally Permed Hair?
When choosing a conditioner for digitally permed hair, you should consider its moisturizing properties, pH balance, protein content, ingredients, and specific needs of your hair.
- Moisturizing properties
- pH balance
- Protein content
- Ingredients
- Specific hair needs
Understanding these factors can help you select the right product that addresses the unique characteristics of digitally permed hair.
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Moisturizing Properties: Choosing a conditioner with strong moisturizing properties is vital for digitally permed hair. This type of hair tends to be drier due to the chemical process. Conditioners containing ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and various oils (such as argan or jojoba) help retain moisture and improve hair texture. According to a 2018 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, formulations that include humectants can significantly enhance hair hydration levels.
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pH Balance: Conditioners should ideally have a pH level between 4.5 and 5.5. This range helps maintain the natural pH of the hair and scalp. A balanced pH in conditioners can prevent further damage and promote cuticle health. The International Journal of Trichology (2015) notes that hair damage increases when pH levels are off balance, impacting the overall health of chemically treated hair.
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Protein Content: Digitally permed hair can sometimes require more protein to strengthen and repair damage. Look for conditioners with hydrolyzed proteins, such as keratin, which can help fill in gaps in the hair structure. A 2021 article from Hair Treatment Research reveals that protein-infused conditioners help improve elasticity and reduce breakage in chemically treated hair.
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Ingredients: The ingredients list is crucial. Avoid sulfates and harsh chemicals which can strip moisture from permed hair. Opt for conditioners that include natural extracts and oils. Ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, and panthenol are often recommended for their nourishing properties. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) reported in 2019 that many natural-based conditioners offer gentler and more effective hydration, especially for treated hair.
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Specific Hair Needs: Consider your hair’s specific needs. Textured or coarse hair may require richer, more emollient formulas, while fine hair may need lighter conditioners that won’t weigh it down. Personal preferences and hair texture can impact how well a conditioner works. A 2022 survey by Hair Care Science found that consumers noticed significant variances in product effectiveness based on individual hair characteristics, illustrating the need for tailored approaches to hair care.
How Can Conditioners Improve the Health of Digitally Permed Hair?
Conditioners can significantly improve the health of digitally permed hair by providing moisture, reducing damage, enhancing elasticity, and promoting manageability.
Moisture: Conditioners contain hydrating ingredients that lock in moisture. Digitally permed hair often becomes dry due to the chemical processing involved. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2021) found that conditioners with humectants, like glycerin, effectively attract water to hair strands, improving hydration levels.
Damage reduction: Conditioners create a protective layer around hair strands. This protection helps prevent further damage from heat styling and environmental stressors. According to research published in the International Journal of Trichology (Lee, 2020), using conditioners regularly can decrease hair breakage by up to 40%.
Elasticity enhancement: Conditioners improve the hair’s elasticity. Elasticity refers to the hair’s ability to stretch without breaking. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Harris, 2019) disclosed that conditioners containing protein ingredients, like keratin, can restore elasticity, making hair more resilient against breakage.
Manageability: Conditioners help in detangling hair, making it easier to comb and style. This is particularly important for digitally permed hair, which can become tangled easily. A survey by the American Academy of Dermatology in 2022 revealed that 78% of individuals found their hair more manageable after using a suitable conditioner.
Overall, these benefits make conditioners essential for maintaining the health and appearance of digitally permed hair.
What Are the Ingredients That Are Beneficial for Digitally Permed Hair?
The beneficial ingredients for digitally permed hair include moisturizing components, protein-rich substances, oils, and thermal protectants.
- Moisturizing Components
- Protein-Rich Substances
- Natural Oils
- Thermal Protectants
To understand these beneficial ingredients, let’s delve into each category in detail.
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Moisturizing Components: Moisturizing components are crucial for digitally permed hair. They help retain moisture and prevent dryness. Ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid are commonly used for their ability to attract and hold water. Studies have shown that maintaining hydration can reduce frizz and enhance curl definition (J. Hair Research, 2022).
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Protein-Rich Substances: Protein-rich substances are essential for strengthening digitally permed hair. Ingredients such as keratin and hydrolyzed silk protein are popular choices. These proteins can help repair damage from the perming process and improve hair elasticity. The International Journal of Cosmetic Science explains that protein treatments can help prevent breakage and maintain the integrity of permed hair.
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Natural Oils: Natural oils provide lubrication and nourishment to dry, chemically treated hair. Oils like argan, jojoba, and coconut offer hydration and shine while preventing split ends. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft and reduces protein loss during grooming, making it beneficial for permed hair care.
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Thermal Protectants: Thermal protectants help shield hair from the heat of styling tools. Ingredients like dimethicone and cyclomethicone create a barrier that reduces heat exposure. According to research in the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, using thermal protectants can mitigate damage and keep hair healthier after styling.
These ingredients work in synergy to maintain the health and appearance of digitally permed hair, ensuring that it remains vibrant and manageable.
Which Conditioners Offer Deep Moisturization for Digitally Permed Hair?
The best conditioners for deep moisturization of digitally permed hair typically contain rich moisturizing ingredients and are formulated to restore hydration and elasticity.
- Silicone-based conditioners
- Protein-rich conditioners
- Oil-infused conditioners
- Hydrating leave-in conditioners
- Natural conditioners with aloe vera or shea butter
These options represent a variety of perspectives based on different moisturizing ingredients and formulation types. It is important to consider individual hair needs when selecting a conditioner.
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Silicone-based conditioners:
Silicone-based conditioners provide a protective barrier around the hair shaft. This barrier retains moisture and prevents frizz. Ingredients like dimethicone or cyclopentasiloxane are common in these products. They can leave hair feeling soft and shiny without weighing it down. -
Protein-rich conditioners:
Protein-rich conditioners strengthen hair by replenishing lost keratin. Keratin is the primary protein in hair, and its loss can occur through chemical treatments like digital perming. These conditioners typically contain hydrolyzed proteins which help to fortify and restore structural integrity. -
Oil-infused conditioners:
Oil-infused conditioners use natural oils, such as argan or coconut oil, to deeply moisturize the hair. These oils penetrate the hair shaft, enhancing hydration and providing essential nutrients. They can also help to smooth the hair cuticle, reducing breakage and enhancing shine. -
Hydrating leave-in conditioners:
Hydrating leave-in conditioners provide ongoing moisture without rinsing. They are designed to be used daily for added hydration throughout the day. These products often contain humectants like glycerin that draw moisture into the hair, ensuring it remains moisturized. -
Natural conditioners with aloe vera or shea butter:
Natural conditioners often incorporate soothing and moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or shea butter. Aloe vera has hydrating properties and helps to repair damaged hair. Shea butter, rich in fatty acids, provides deep moisture and improves hair elasticity, making it an excellent choice for chemically treated hair.
How Can You Use the Right Conditioner to Repair Damage in Digitally Permed Hair?
Using the right conditioner can effectively repair damage in digitally permed hair by providing moisture, restoring protein balance, and enhancing manageability.
Moisture retention: Digital perming can lead to dryness. A conditioner formulated for damaged hair contains moisturizing agents like glycerin and panthenol. These ingredients attract and retain water, helping to hydrate the hair and restore its softness. According to a study by Rojas et al. (2020), proper moisture levels in hair reduce brittleness and improve elasticity.
Protein restoration: Digital perming alters the hair’s natural protein structure. A protein-rich conditioner can help restore this balance. Look for hydrolyzed proteins, such as keratin or wheat protein. These proteins penetrate the hair shaft and strengthen the hair from within. A review by Gonzalez (2021) highlighted that protein treatments can significantly improve hair strength and reduce breakage.
pH balance: Maintaining the right pH is essential after digital perming. Hair typically has an acidic pH, while many conditioners are pH-balanced to help close the cuticle. This action enhances shine and reduces frizz. The Journal of Cosmetic Science notes that using pH-balanced products can contribute to healthier, smoother hair (Sharma, 2022).
Detangling properties: A good conditioner makes hair easier to comb through. Ingredients like silicone derivatives or natural oils can provide slip. This reduces hair breakage during styling. A study by Zhang (2023) emphasizes that improved detangling reduces damage and enhances long-term hair health.
Heat protection: Digital permed hair can be more susceptible to heat damage. Conditioners with heat protectants, like dimethicone, create a barrier against thermal styling tools. This protection helps maintain hair integrity. Research indicates that using heat protectants can reduce heat-related damage by up to 40% (Lee et al., 2021).
Regular use: Consistent application of a suitable conditioner promotes ongoing repair. A weekly deep conditioning treatment may further enhance results by providing intensive moisture and nourishment. Regular use helps maintain the health and vibrancy of digitally permed hair, as supported by a survey conducted by the Hair Health Foundation (2023).
What Application Techniques Are Effective for Conditioners on Digitally Permed Hair?
The effective application techniques for conditioners on digitally permed hair include targeted techniques to preserve the curl pattern and maintain hair health.
- Applying conditioner immediately after rinsing out perm solution
- Using a wide-tooth comb to distribute conditioner evenly
- Implementing a leave-in conditioner for added moisture
- Performing a deep conditioning treatment weekly
- Avoiding heat styling tools to prevent damage
- Utilizing a microfiber towel to reduce frizz
To elaborate on these techniques, the following sections will provide detailed insights.
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Applying Conditioner Immediately After Rinsing Out Perm Solution: This technique involves using a conditioner right after the perm treatment and rinsing it out creates a protective barrier. By applying conditioner at this stage, one helps lock in moisture that can counteract drying effects from strong chemicals. According to a study by Hclor & Hjalmarson (2019), ensuring hydration at this crucial moment can significantly improve curl retention.
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Using a Wide-Tooth Comb to Distribute Conditioner Evenly: Employing a wide-tooth comb allows for even distribution of conditioner throughout the hair. This method prevents breakage by minimizing tugging on delicate permed strands. The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes the importance of gentle combing, especially for chemically treated hair.
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Implementing a Leave-In Conditioner for Added Moisture: A leave-in conditioner can be beneficial after washing and conditioning. Leave-in conditioners help maintain moisture and add softness. According to hair health expert Dr. Angela Lynn (2022), regular use of a leave-in product enhances manageability and curl definition.
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Performing a Deep Conditioning Treatment Weekly: Weekly deep conditioning treatments restore moisture and nourish hair that may become dry or porous due to digital perming. Treatments rich in proteins or hydrating ingredients, like shea butter, are recommended. In a case study published by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, individuals who adhered to a regular deep conditioning regimen reported improvements in hair texture and overall health.
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Avoiding Heat Styling Tools to Prevent Damage: Minimizing the use of heat styling tools is crucial for preserving permed curls. Heat can strip moisture and cause the curl pattern to relax. The British Journal of Dermatology notes that heat protection is vital for any chemically treated hair.
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Utilizing a Microfiber Towel to Reduce Frizz: After washing, using a microfiber towel helps reduce frizz without causing friction. This type of towel absorbs moisture effectively while being gentle on permed hair. Research by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlights that microfiber technology mitigates cuticle damage, enhancing the overall look of curls.
How Frequently Should You Apply Conditioner to Maintain Healthy Digitally Permed Hair?
You should apply conditioner to maintain healthy digitally permed hair at least once a week. Digitally permed hair requires extra hydration and care. Conditioner helps restore moisture and seal in nutrients lost during the perming process. Look for a conditioner that is specifically designed for chemically treated hair. This type of conditioner often contains ingredients that strengthen and repair damaged strands. Using conditioner more frequently, such as every other day, can benefit very dry or damaged hair. Always focus on the mid-lengths to the ends when applying conditioner. This practice ensures you do not weigh down the roots. After applying, leave the conditioner in for a few minutes for maximum effectiveness. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to help close the hair cuticle and add shine. Adjust the frequency based on your hair’s specific needs.
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